Cabinet Approves Continuation of National Social Assistance Programme with Rs 53,428 Crore Outlay
The Union Cabinet chaired by Prime Minister Narendra Modi has approved the continuation of the National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) for five years from 2026-27 to 2030-31 with a total financial outlay of Rs. 53,428 crore. The approval includes three major components: renaming of the scheme and all sub-schemes, revision in eligibility criteria and coverage for disability pension, and continuation of existing pension schemes for old aged persons and widows along with the family benefit scheme.
Scheme Renaming and Restructuring
The programme has been comprehensively renamed, with the main scheme changing from National Social Assistance Programme (NSAP) to Pradhan Mantri Samajik Sahayata Yojana. All sub-schemes have also been rebranded: Indira Gandhi National Old Age Pension Scheme becomes Pradhan Mantri Vridhavastha Pension Yojana, Indira Gandhi National Widow Pension Scheme becomes Pradhan Mantri Vidhawa Pension Yojana, Indira Gandhi National Disability Pension Scheme becomes Pradhan Mantri Divyangjan Pension Yojana, and National Family Benefit scheme becomes Pradhan Mantri Parivar Labh Yojana.
Revised Disability Pension Provisions
Significant changes have been implemented for the disability pension scheme. The assistance amount has been revised to Rs. 375 per month for beneficiaries aged 0-79 years and Rs. 625 per month for those aged 80 years and above. The eligibility criteria have been substantially expanded, with the benchmark disability requirement reduced from 80% to 40% disability. Additionally, the minimum age criterion has been eliminated, making beneficiaries eligible since birth rather than requiring a minimum age threshold.
Implementation and Beneficiary Coverage
The programme will benefit a total of 3.20 crore beneficiaries across all 36 States and Union Territories in India. The implementation strategy requires issuing revised guidelines incorporating the changed eligibility criteria, beneficiary numbers, and revised assistance rates for the disability pension scheme within three months of the approval. The pension schemes for old aged persons and widows, along with the family benefit scheme, will continue in their existing form without changes to their structure or benefits.
Historical Context and Constitutional Basis
The National Social Assistance Programme was originally launched on 15th August, 1995 to provide assistance to poor households and fulfil the Central Government's responsibility under the Directive Principles of State Policy in Article 41 of the Constitution of India. The programme provides 100% central assistance to ensure uniform availability of benefits to eligible beneficiaries across the country. The recent changes align with the Rights of Persons with Disability Act 2016, which mandates that disability-related assistance must be at least 25% higher than similarly placed schemes for other categories.